DE3301315A1 - MACHINE AND METHOD FOR FILLING A CONTAINER THROUGH AN OPENING ADDED TO IT - Google Patents

Description

Machine and method for filling a container through an opening arranged on it.

The invention relates to a machine and a method for filling a container through one arranged on it Opening. In particular, the invention relates to a machine and a method for sequentially aseptic To fill containers with a liquid food or drink.

The machine and the method can in particular be applicable to flexible, bag-like containers with liquid To fill beverages which are perishable, such as milk, and for the sake of simplicity, is described below the machine and the method are described in relation to this example application. It should, however it must be taken into account that the machine and the method are not limited to this application, for example are.

When an untreated and unprotected food or drink is stored at ambient temperatures, The activity of naturally occurring bacterial organisms can lead to the food or Drink spoils in a relatively short time. Chilled storage of the product is used as a means of delay the activity of these organisms and thereby known to extend the shelf life of the product, though There can be high costs due to refrigerated transport and refrigerated storage. As an alternative that can Product by adding chemical preservatives

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treated to retard the activity of bacterial organisms; the public will however increasingly reluctant due to the obvious or perceived effects of such frequently used Preservatives.

Also the treatment of food or beverages in a pasteurization process in which the food or drink exposure to heat is considered a means of destroying bacterial organisms within of the food or drink and thus known to reduce spoilage. In a known pasteurization process most foods or beverages are cooked and undergo chemical changes, which can change their properties, especially their taste. However, it has been found that in a relatively recently developed pasteurization process known as the ultra-heating process is, the bacterial organisms in some foods and beverages are destroyed, with the harmful ones Influences on the properties of the product are minimal. The ultra-heating process is based on the fact that the food or drink is brought to a very high temperature for a short period of time and then is rapidly cooled to ambient temperature. However, some products are again prone to spoilage, when they have reached the ambient temperature again.

Milk is special for pollution and with it spoilage vulnerable and none of the above is complete in preventing this spoilage

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satisfactory ad. It is therefore for the marketer of Dairy products require the milk to be offered in a container, which takes the milk from the last stage of production to the end consumer in a sterile atmosphere to keep bacterial contamination to a minimum. A successful treatment this type means that the milk can be transported and stored over a longer period of time without the Need for critical refrigeration, the addition of preservatives, or pasteurization Use of other means of destroying bacterial organisms exists.

A recently developed container for storing and distributing milk, especially to bulk consumers, is a flexible pouch made of layered material, such as a plastic or a plastic-metal laminate, with a closure arrangement through which milk is introduced into or withdrawn from the container can be. It has been found that these bag-like containers generally retain the milk in an unspoilt condition can hold, provided that they are sterilized before filling and the containers - if at all - be filled with little contamination of either the container or the milk. the machines and methods currently available for filling such containers on a commercial scale however, do not achieve this satisfactorily, so that the shelf life of the filled milk is reduced.

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It is an object of the present invention to provide a filling machine and method which do enable the above-described difficulty that occurs in known filling machines and processes to overcome.

To solve this problem, a machine for filling a container through an opening arranged on it is provided distinguished according to the invention by a frame which forms a conveying area for the containers and through which Conveyor area introduced into the machine containers are moved during the filling process by a on the Frame-mounted container sterilization arrangement which forms a sterilization station in the conveying area, with the container sterilization assembly is operable to treat the containers in at least one containing the opening Sterilize area aseptically when in the sterilization station and through a container filling arrangement mounted on the frame, which forms a container filling station in the conveying area, the container filling arrangement being operable in such a way that it picks up sterilized containers and fills them with a product through the opening arranged on them, while at least the portion of the container containing the opening is maintained in an aseptic condition.

In addition, the object set is achieved according to the invention by a method for filling a container an opening arranged on it, which according to the invention includes the following steps:

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Insertion of the container into a conveying area for the transport of the container, movement of the container through the Conveying area to a sterilization station, sterilization of the container at least in the area of its opening, when in the sterilization station, transferring the sterilized container along the conveying area to a filling station and filling the container received in the filling station through its opening with a product while at least the opening area of the container is kept in an aseptic condition.

Preferably, the machine frame forms an elongated conveyor area with an inlet through which a empty container can be introduced into this area, and with an outlet through which a filled Container is issued from the conveying area. Preferably the conveying area extends generally during operation of the machine along one or more horizontal planes.

The machine frame is preferably suitable for covering the conveying area over its during operation of the machine include the entire linear expansion. Furthermore, the inlet and the outlet of the conveying area are preferred selectively sealable, which is achieved by the inclusion of suitable inlet and outlet closure elements in the Machine area is accessible. Due to the extent of this containment of the production area during operation the machine can contaminate the conveyor area can be reduced to a minimum by the atmosphere surrounding the machine.

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As an additional measure against contamination of the conveying area by the surrounding atmosphere, the The conveying area is supplied with a sterilizing gas, which the conveying area with a higher than the ambient atmospheric pressure pressurizes and maintains this pressure. The sterilizing gas is preferably supplied from a unit pressurizing the conveying area.

The machine according to the invention is preferably suitable for working continuously, so that a majority of Containers successively introduced into the machine and moved through the conveyor area, filled and then discharged the machine is dispensed. These containers are preferably stored adjacent to the conveying area in order to to be introduced into this funding area. The containers can be used in any suitable manner, such as also manually, introduced into the conveying area. The containers can be separated from each other, or - for convenience of the loading process - separable in series with each other connected so that a bundle of containers can be fed into the machine at the same time, whereupon the containers are separated from each other after filling.

The machine according to the invention preferably also comprises a drive arrangement for the containers which moves the containers through the conveying area. Preferably this drive arrangement is operated so that the containers are moved gradually along the conveying area. In this way, the steps of movement of the container

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be selected so that the movement of the container between predetermined movement steps to a standstill comes so that the machine functions can be performed on the containers while they are at a standstill are located. The drive arrangement is preferably designed to be generally equidistant is ensured between the adjacent containers during their movement through the conveying area.

The sterilization arrangement is preferably attached to the machine frame in such a way that the sterilization station follows the inlet of the conveying area in the conveying direction. In addition, the sterilization arrangement is preferred arranged to generally isolate the sterilization station from the remainder of the conveyor area can.

The sterilization arrangement, the containers or at least a region of these containers are preferably suitable sterilize in two stages. For this purpose the sterilization station preferably has two Sterilization substations, in each of which one of these sterilization stages takes place. One The sterilization substation is in front of the other in the direction of movement.

The sterilization arrangement preferably comprises a pre-sterilization unit which is located within the conveying area or adjacent to it at the sterilization substation first passed through in the direction of movement is arranged and is operable to

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at least one outer surface of the container or a GeMn. deumhül treatment sterilized in a container or several containers are fed to the machine. In this way it can be on the outer surface of the container or any impurities in the container casing, which were recorded during storage or in some other way before loading the machine, sterilized. Preferably, the containers stop moving through the conveying area when they are located in the sterilization substation initially passed through, thus through the pre-sterilization unit effective sterilization can be performed.

The pre-sterilization unit can be designed in such a way that it covers the outer surface of the container or the container bundle cleaning washes. This cleaning laundry can be achieved by using the outer surface sprays a chemical disinfectant liquid and then dries the surface, leaving traces of the liquid removed from the outer surface. The pre-sterilization unit can also be operated in such a way that the Containers are generally exposed to high frequency light rays such as ultraviolet light rays low intensity to aid sterilization.

Preferably the sterilization arrangement also comprises a main sterilization unit located within the conveying area or adjacent to it at the subsequent sterilization substation in the conveying direction and which can be operated in such a way that it

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sLens sterilizes the opening area of the container. In this way, contamination of the product while the containers are filled is reduced to a minimum. The containers preferably also interrupt their movement through the conveying area when they are in of the two sterilization substations subsequently passed through in the conveying direction, so that one sufficient sterilization can take place by the main sterilization unit.

The main sterilization unit can be operated to high frequency the opening area of the container Exposing rays of light such as high intensity ultraviolet rays. This sterilization unit The containers can also use generally high frequency light rays such as ultraviolet light rays low intensity, expose.

The container filling arrangement is preferably arranged on the machine frame in such a way that the filling station is in Direction of movement is behind the sterilization station. The filling arrangement is preferably constructed in such a way that that the filling station is generally isolated from the rest of the conveying area. Preferably the filling station is in the conveying direction immediately behind the two sterilization substations that are subsequently passed through arranged so that the container directly from the sterilization station in during operation of the machine move through the filling station in order to be prepared for the filling process.

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Preferably, the filling arrangement comprises a container filling unit, which is located in the conveying area or adjacent to it and is operable in such a way that the container be filled in the filling station with a predetermined amount of the product, the filling unit preferably has one or more guide elements extending from the sterilization station into and through the filling station extend to sequentially the containers from the sterilization station into and through the filling station respectively. In addition, the filling unit preferably has one or more positioning elements, which are provided in the filling station and are operable to place the containers next to their opening Hold tightly in the filling station in a predetermined filling position for filling with the product and position. Preferably, when the positioning elements hold the containers in place, the movement this container and the subsequent container interrupted by the conveying area to allow the container to be filled to enable. This interruption of movement also leads to an interruption of the subsequent one or more Container within at least the sterilization substation subsequently passed through in the direction of movement. The positioning elements can preferably be operated in such a way that they can release the containers only position and hold on to the container while it is being filled.

The filling unit preferably also has a filling head which is arranged within the conveying area and with a source of the product to be filled

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is bar and operable to inject a portion of the product through its opening into a container, which is positioned and held in place by the positioning elements in the filling station. Of the The filling head is preferably mounted in such a way that it executes a movement relative to the retained container can, in such a way that during operation of the machine, the filling head is inserted into the opening of the container in order to Inject product and that it is then withdrawn from the opening so that the filled container out of the Filling station can be moved on.

The machine according to the invention preferably comprises the further a container dispensing arrangement which is mounted on the machine frame and a dispensing station in the Funding area includes. The output arrangement is preferably arranged on the machine frame in such a way that in the conveying direction the output station follows the filling station. When the containers moving through the conveying area are connected to one another, the output arrangement a separating unit to separate the containers from one another so that they can be passed individually through the outlet of the Conveying area can be released from the machine.

These and further advantageous features of the invention can also be found in the dependent claims in connection with the description that follows. On the basis of this description of an exemplary embodiment shown in the drawing the invention this is explained in more detail.

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3 7 01 315

It shows:

1 is a side view showing the general arrangement of a preferred embodiment of a container filling machine according to the invention,

FIG. 1 a is a side view to illustrate an embodiment of the by the machine according to FIG. 1 container to be filled,

Fig. 2 is a side view of part of the machine of Fig. 1 with details,

Fig. 3 is an end view of the machine according to Fig. 1 with details,

FIG. 4 is a side view of a further part of FIG

Machine according to Fig. 1 with details, Fig. 5 is a plan view of part of the machine seen from the line V-V in Fig. 4,

6 shows an end view of the machine part shown in FIG. 4 with details,

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a further part of the machine according to FIG. 1;

8 shows a cross-section through part of the machine along the line VIII-VIII in FIG. 7, with details,

9 is a side view of yet another machine part with details and

FIG. 10 is an end view of the machine part shown in FIG. 9 with details.

If one first considers FIGS. 1 and la, it is general a machine 1 is shown, which is used for filling

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Containers 2 with a product, not shown, is used. The container 2 comprises a plastic bag 3 with a Closure nozzle 4 which is inserted tightly into the bag 3 in order to form an opening 5 leading into the bag 3. The container 2 also has a closure cap 6 which can be releasably snapped onto the closure nozzle 4 can to close the opening 5. A plurality of bag-shaped containers 2 are in a container 7 summarized, the bags 2 connected in series and folded like a fan to form a stack and are stored in at least one plastic container casing, not shown. The container 7 can beforehand have undergone a sterilization procedure, such as gamma-ray irradiation, before it the machine 1 is fed.

The machine 1 has a frame 8 which has a generally horizontally extending conveyor area 9 forms. The conveying area 9 is generally square and is formed by a bottom wall 10, a cover 11 and opposing side walls 12 and 13 of the frame 8 are formed. Funding area 9 has a loading opening 14 through which containers 7 can be introduced into the machine 1. The loading opening 14 can optionally be closed by an inlet door 15 which is slidably mounted on the frame 8. The conveying area also has an outlet opening 16 through which filled containers 2 leave the machine 1 after they have been moved through the conveyor area 9. The outlet port 16 can optionally closed by an outlet flap, not shown

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which is articulated on the frame 8 and by the pressure of the container 2 during operation of the machine can be pushed on.

The frame 8 is advantageously made so that it has inspection covers 17 which are used for the inspection and maintenance of the machine 1. At least some of the Inspection covers 17 can be made transparent so that the operating personnel can observe the filling process can.

The machine 1 generally comprises a container sterilization assembly 18, which is used to aseptically sterilize the container 2, a filling arrangement 19 for Filling the container 2 with the product, a dispensing arrangement 20 for dispensing the filled container 2 from the Machine 1 and a drive arrangement 21 for moving the container along the conveyor area 9 and through the Arrangements 18, 19 and 20.

The sterilization arrangement 18 is shown in detail in FIGS. 2 to 4 and has one in the conveying direction first through sterilization substation 22 and a subsequently through sterilization substation 23 within the conveying area 9. The sterilization arrangement 18 can have a movable inner partition door 24 around the sterilization substation which is first passed through 22 to be divided into sections 25 and 26. In addition, the sterilization arrangement 18 be provided with an outer partition wall 27 to at least substantially the upstream in the conveying direction

Downstream sterilization substation 22 from the subsequent downstream sterilization substation 23 to separate. In this way, in particular the section 25 and to a lesser extent also the section 26 of the upstream sterilization substation 22 can be closed and isolated.

The sterilization arrangement 18 comprises a pre-sterilization unit 28 (FIGS. 2 and 3) for sterilizing the container bundle 7 which is passed through the loading opening 14 is introduced into the conveying area 9, this pre-sterilization unit in the area of the upstream Sterilization substation 22 is arranged. The pre-sterilization unit 28 comprises a pair of spaced apart of each other arranged spray nozzles 29, which are arranged within the section 25 and on the cover 11 are hung. The spray nozzles 29 are connected via a conduit 30 to a source (not shown) pressurized chemical disinfectant fluid attached to the outer surface of the container envelope to be able to subject the container 7 to a spray wash.

The pre-sterilization unit 28 can also comprise at least one electrical heating element 31, which is in the upstream portion 25 of the sterilization substation 22 is arranged and operated selectively can to dry the container 7 if it was previously with the disinfectant liquid sprayed from the nozzles 29 has been washed.

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The pre-sterilization unit 28 also includes collecting trays 32, which are in sections 25 and 26 in the area the bottom wall 10 are arranged or are formed by this and which serve the sprayed Collect disinfectant liquid and divert it from the conveying area 9. Each catch pan 32 may have a drain (not shown) for the collection, deposition or recirculation of the disinfectant liquid serves.

The pre-sterilization unit 28 also includes at least one generator 33 for generating an ultraviolet Light of low intensity, which is operable to the container package 7 ultraviolet radiation suspend. Each light generator 33 hangs below the cover 11 and can be designed as a water-cooled lamp be.

A pair of generators 33 can be spaced apart in the sections 25 and 26 of the first in the conveying direction traversed sterilization substation 22 be arranged.

The sterilization assembly 18 further includes one Main sterilization unit 34 (FIG. 4) in the subsequently passed through or downstream sterilization substation 23. The main sterilization unit 34 comprises a generator 35 for generating an ultraviolet High intensity light in the form of a water-cooled lamp, which is arranged in the sterilization substation 23 is, so that the moved along the conveyor area 9

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Container 2 with its area having the closure nozzle 4 and the closure caps 6 immediately below wander through this lamp to expose it to ultraviolet radiation. The main sterilization unit also includes at least one generator 36 for generating low-intensity ultraviolet light, which is arranged in the downstream sterilization substation 23 to at least the outer, to expose the upper surface of the bags 3 to the ultraviolet radiation. At least two such generators 36, which also have the form of water-cooled lamps, can be used in the sterilization substation 23 and hang down from the cover 11.

The sterilization assembly 18 also includes at least one

on the frame 8 arranged manipulation element 37, which is suitable for manual manipulations on the To enable container bundles 7 within the sterilization substation 22, which is initially passed through, and to a certain extent Extent also within the downstream sterilization substation 23. Each manipulation element 37 can be in the form of a surgical glove, which is sealed in this way on the frame 8 of the machine 1 is attached that it extends through the side wall 12 or 13 in the conveying area 9 and in which the An operator's arm can be introduced in order to manipulate the container bundle 7. At least a pair of such manipulation elements 37 can be in each of the sterilization sub-stations 22 and 23 extend, but to simplify the

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Representation not all of these manipulation elements are shown.

The sterilization arrangement 18 also comprises a waste ejection device 38 (FIG. 2), which from the downstream through which the sterilization substation 23 leads out and through which the container wrapping of the Container bundle 7 can be led out after the release of the container 2. The waste ejector 38 comprises a chute 39, which is opposite to the sterilization substation 23 which is subsequently passed through is sealable by a removable flap 40, which by a suitably arranged manipulation element 37 can be actuated.

The container filling assembly 19, which is shown in detail in Figures 4-8, includes a container filling station 41 in the conveying area 9, in which the container 2 is filled with the product (not shown). The container filling arrangement 19 is in the direction of the sterilization substation 23 located downstream in the conveying direction open, but it has a partition wall 42, which the filling station 41 with respect to the dispensing arrangement 20 with Except for the outlet opening 43 can seal through welehe the filled containers 2 migrate during the operation of the machine 1. The outlet port 43 has in general has a rectangular shape and is dimensioned in such a way that it just clears the passage of filled containers 2 enables.

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The container filling assembly 19 comprises a container filling unit 44, which is in the filling station 41 or in the Neighborhood is arranged. The filling unit 44 comprises a pair of closely spaced guide rails 45 which from inside the downstream sterilization substation 23 through the filling station 41 and through the Extend outlet port 43 also. The guide rails 45 are generally L-shaped in cross section and are arranged to face each other are facing that the closure 4 of the container 2 can be inserted between them and displaceable are carried by the guide rails 45. The guide rails 45 are fixed on the machine frame 8 of the bottom wall 10 of the conveyor area 9 attached adjacent and run below the generator 35 for generation of a light of high intensity. This attachment positions the guide rails 45 in a horizontal position Level, so that the closure led by the guide rails 45 clip 4 with the opening 5 pointing upwards protrude vertically from the guide rails 45 upwards.

The guide rails 45 change their spacing relative to one another in such a way that they one another in the filling station 41 are closer together than in the downstream sterilization substation 23. In this way, the closure nozzle 4 of the container 2 can be easily received and are guided between the rails 45 in order to reduce the frictional resistance in the sterilization substation 23 to keep low, while only in the filling station 41 of the closure nozzle 4 a tight sliding and support seat has between the guide rails 45 so that he

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for filling the container is positively positioned and held.

The inner surfaces 46 of the guide rails 45 can highly polished or retroreflective so that the ultraviolet light rays in particular come from the generator 35 are reflected from these surfaces and concentrated around the closure cap 6.

The filling unit 44 also has a support platform 47, which is located below the guide rails 45 from the inside the downstream sterilization substation 23 through the filling station 41 to its outlet opening 43 extends. The support platform 47 is used for form-fitting support of the plastic bag 3 between the Support platform 47 and the guide rails 45 as they are moved through the filling station 41, namely especially during and after the filling process. About the container size, which is increasing due to the filling process To be taken into account, the support platform 47 extends in the downstream sterilization substation 23 parallel to the guide rails 45 and in close distance below these, while they are in the filling station 41 in the direction ε-uf the outlet 43 their Distance from the guide rails 45 increased. The support platform 47 may be in the form of a support plate or have a support grid.

The filling unit 44 also has a pair of positioning arms 48 and 49 which are selectively actuatable to in order to grasp the closure nozzle 4 of the container 2

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and to hold it when the containers are in the filling station 41. Each arm 48 and 49 is on one associated guide rail 45 and comprises a gripping finger 50 which is on the associated guide rail 45 is mounted pivotably about an axis 51, the finger 50 of the arm 48 in the direction of movement is arranged somewhat upstream of the finger 50 of the arm 49 as seen. Each arm 48 and 49 also includes an actuating lever 52 which is pivotably connected to the associated gripping finger 50 and through an associated linear motor 53 can be actuated to move the gripping fingers 50 to their respective assigned Axis 51 to move towards each other and away from each other to the closure nozzle arranged between them to seize or release.

The filling unit 44 also comprises a filling head (FIGS. 7 and 8) for filling the in the filling station 41 positioned container 2. The filling head 54 comprises a support plate 55 which is fixed on a support rod is attached, which in turn is mounted on the machine frame 8 via a bearing 57 to with respect to a vertical axis 58 perform a linear movement and a rotary movement relative to the frame 8 of the machine 1 to be able to. The support plate 55 is directly above the guide rails 45 and the gripping fingers 50 arranged within the filling station 41 so that it is located above the closure nozzle 4 of the container 2, those between the Greiffin like 50 in the filling station 41 are positioned. The support rod 56 can be pivoted about the axis 58 by a linear motor 59

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are mounted on the frame 8 of the machine 1 and eccentrically via a connecting link 60 with the Support rod 56 is connected. The support rod 56 can be linearly moved along the axis 58 by a further linear motor 61 are moved, which is also mounted on the frame 8 and via a connecting member 62 with the support rod 56 is connected.

The dispensing head 54 further includes a shutter opening mechanism 63, which is mounted on the support plate 55 and is operable to be different from that in the filling station 41 located container 2 to fill this container 2, the cap 6 removes and then touches down again. The shutter opening mechanism 63 comprises a tubular body 64 which is integral with the Support plate 55 is connected and extends downward therefrom. A series of elongated grasping claws 65 is mounted on the tubular body 64 and extends downward therefrom. The claws 65 are with Spaced from one another around the tubular body 64 in an annular arrangement and supported so that that they can execute a radial pivoting movement about individual axes 66. The tubular body 64 and the claws 65 together form a downwardly open mouth 67, of which the closure cap 6 during the operation of the machine 1 can be started.

On the tubular body 64 a number of resilient bands 68 is arranged, which extend in the circumferential direction around the body 64 and also around the gripping claws 65. These bands 68 exercise on the gripping claws

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65 from a radially inwardly directed bias so that the gripping claws extend parallel to the body 64. The resilient bands 68 can be designed as helical springs. 5

The shutter opening mechanism 63 also includes an operating ram 69 operable in such a way that he cooperates with the gripping claws 65 to them to press against the bias of the straps 68 radially outward, so that they a locking cap grasped by it 6 release, and that he releases the closure cap 6 into engagement with the closure nozzle 4 presses. The actuating ram 69 has an elongated one Shank section 70 which is displaceable in the longitudinal direction within the tubular body 64 and a head 71 adjacent to the gripping claws 65. The actuation ram · 69 is between an in 8, in which the head 71 is withdrawn from the position of engagement with the gripping claws 65 is movable, and an operating position in which the head 71 cooperates with the gripping claws 65 and protrudes from the mouth 67. The actuating ram 69 is actuated by a coil spring 72 in biased its rest position, which is arranged between the tubular body 64 and the shaft portion 70 is. The actuating ram 69 can counter the biasing action of this spring 72 by the action of a Linear motor 73 are moved, which is arranged on the frame 8 of the machine 1 in a position that is is located directly above the closure nozzle 4, which is gripped by the arms 48 and 49 in the filling station 41.

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The filling head 54 also includes a filling nozzle 74, which on the plate 5 and the support rod 56 for common Movement is attached to these parts. Advantageously, the support rod 56 is with a channel 75 provided which extends between the filling nozzle 74 and an outlet 76 which is provided with a not shown Source of a product to be dispensed through the filling nozzle 74 is connected. The filling nozzle 74 points in the circumferential direction about the vertical axis 58 of the support rod 56 at a distance from the shutter opening mechanism 63 on. In this way, the support plate 55 can be rotated between positions during operation of the machine be, in which alternative the shutter opening? mechanism 63 or the filling nozzle 74 below the linear motor 73 and above the closure nozzle 4 of the container 2 is arranged between the gripping claws 65 is positioned in the filling station 41.

The fill nozzle 74 has an elongated body 77 which extends generally downwardly from the support plate 55 extends up to a nozzle nose 78. The fill nozzle 74 is generally tubular in shape and form thus a channel 79 for the product to be dispensed, which is connected to the channel 75. The nozzle nose 78 has such a size that it can penetrate into the opening 5 of the closure piece 4 in such a way that the nozzle nose 78 rests tightly against the closure nozzle 4.

The filling nozzle 74 also has a dispensing valve 80 which is selectively operable to block the channel 79 or to release and thereby the delivery of the product

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through the nozzle nose 78 to allow or prevent. The valve 80 includes a valve body 81, which in the direction can be moved onto or away from a valve seat 82 in order to shut off the channel 79 or open it. The valve body 81 is arranged on a hollow valve stem 83 and is movable and through this a spring 84 is biased against the valve seat 82, the spring 84 between the body 77 and the valve stem 83 is effective. The movement of the valve stem 83 and thus of the valve body 81 against the The spring 84 is pretensioned to open the channel 79 by the linear motor 73.

The fill nozzle 74 is also selectively connectable to a vacuum source and a source of low pressure gas (not shown), wherein it is so it can be actuated that it connects the vacuum source or the compressed gas source via the nozzle nose 78 to the container 2. The connection of the filling nozzle 74 with the vacuum source takes place when the nozzle nose 78 is tight with the Closure nozzle 4 is engaged and before the container 2 is filled, so that the air in the container 2 is evacuated. The link also takes place takes place immediately after the nozzle nose 78 has withdrawn from the closure nozzle 4 after the container 2 has been filled, so that any drops of the filled product located on the nozzle nose 78 can be removed and thus the possibility is reduced to a minimum that these drops fall and either the container 2 or contaminate the filling station 41. A connection of the filling nozzle 74 to the pressurized gas source takes place

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Completion of the filling process instead of and when the filling nozzle 74 is to be lifted from the closure stub 74 in order to release the tight connection of the nozzle nose 78 with the closure nozzle 4 to facilitate the spraying of the product to be filled to avoid the closure nozzle 4. Nitrogen can be used as the gas. The connection is made via a channel 85, which has a recess 86 and a Port 87 is in communication with the inner bore 88 of the hollow valve stem 83. Although not shown the machine 1 has means for selectively connecting to the vacuum source and the pressurized gas source interrupted during machine operation, as will be explained in more detail below.

The filling nozzle 74 further comprises a control valve 89 which is selectively operable to connect the inner bore 88 via the nozzle nose 78 and thus into the opening 5 of the container 2 during operation of the Control machine. The control valve 89 includes an orifice 90 which extends coaxially through the valve body 81 extends and forms a seat 91 in this. A valve closing needle 92 is slidable in the inner one Bore 88 supported and adapted to move in the direction of the valve seat 91 and away from it to to lock or unlock the muzzle. The valve closing needle 92 protrudes from the valve stem 83 and is This is sealed against this by an O-ring 93, so that the vacuum or the compressed gas in the inner bore 88 is trapped and escape through the mouth 90 is prevented. The valve closing needle

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92 is pretensioned by a spring 94 in such a way that it is lifted from the blocking contact on the valve seat 91 is, the spring 94 between the valve stem 83 and the valve closing needle 92 is effective. A movement the valve closing needle 92 against the bias of the spring 94 to lock the mouth 90 is through the Linear motor 73 reaches when the valve stem 83 is moved through it.

The filling nozzle 74 also has an inlet opening 95 and an outlet opening 96, which via a recess 97 in the body 77 are connected »The openings 95 and 96 are not during operation of the machine 1 with a connected to the steam source shown in order to sterilize the area of the valve stem 83, the recess 97 is exposed and protrudes into the channel 79 for the product to be filled and is contaminated by this.

The filling unit 44 also includes a nozzle cleaning device 98, which is arranged on the machine frame 8 adjacent to the filling head 54, around the filling nozzle nose 78 to be cleaned after each filling of a container 2. The cleaning device 98 is operable to spray wash the nozzle nose 78 when the support plate 55 is moved the filling nozzle 74 is rotated away from the closure nozzle 4 and the closure opening mechanism 63 opposite it aligns.

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The cleaning device 98 comprises a cleaning cup 99 into which the nozzle nose 78 can extend, and a series of spray nozzles 100 which are spaced around the cleaning cup 99 and which optionally with the source of a cleaning liquid (not shown) are connected. The spray nozzles 100 can be actuated to spray the nozzle nose 78.

The dispensing assembly 20 is shown in greater detail in Figs. It has an output station 101 im Conveying area 9. The dispensing arrangement 20 comprises a sealing device 102 which can be actuated in such a way that that it permanently connects the closure caps 6 set back on the closure stub 4 with these after the containers have been filled. The sealing device 102 is directly in the dispensing station 101 arranged downstream of the filling station 41 and can use a suitable welding device, such as be an ultrasonic welder the construction of which is well known to those skilled in the art.

The dispensing device 20 also comprises a separating unit 103, which is used to separate filled containers 2 can be actuated when these are moved through the output station 101 so that they are individually out of the machine can be dispensed through the outlet 16. The separating unit 103 comprises a blade 104 which the Conveying area 9 delimiting cover 11 is arranged adjacent. The blade 104 has a cutting edge 105, which shows a W-shaped course in the longitudinal direction. The blade 104 is on a linear motor 106

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by which the blade 104 is connected to the frame 8. Actuation of the linear motor 106 causes the blade 104 to move up and down in a guillotine manner.
5

Although not shown, the dispenser 20 may also include a discharge chute through which separated, filled containers 2 through the outlet 16 for subsequent collection from the conveying area 9 can fall.

The machine 1 also includes pressure units 107 (Figs. 1 and 6) which are connected to the conveying area 9 for sterilized and pressurized air to be introduced into these. The pressure unit 107 guides the air through the conveying area 9 via lines 108, which open after the filling station 41, so that the air in the filling station 41 and between the filling station 41 and the downstream sterilization substation 23 can circulate. In addition, she is under pressure standing air is free to enter the upstream sterilization substation 22 and dispensing station 101 and then to flow out of these to at least partially this substation 22 and the station 101 put under pressure. The pressure unit 107 can optionally be operated to allow the air alone in the conveying area 9 to be introduced and to be directed recirculatively. The pressure unit 107 can be a pumping device 109 which can be operated to extract the air from the atmosphere surrounding the machine 1 and them for sterilization by a heater 110

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and then through a cooling device 111 before it is introduced into the lines 108 and then is recirculated. Although it is not shown, it can the printing unit 107 is alternatively an air-purifying sterilization device which takes the air from a source of compressed air and puts the air in the lines 108 are sterilized.

The machine 1 also comprises a drive arrangement 21 for moving the container packs 7 and those therein Containers 2 contained along the conveying area 9. The drive arrangement 21 comprises an input conveyor 112 (Figs. 2 and 3), the idle rollers rotatably arranged within the sterilization substations 22 and 23 includes. A series of rollers 113 extend along the bottom wall 10 of the conveying area 9 in both Substations 22 and 23, while another group of rollers 114 run along side walls 12 and 13 of the conveying area 9 in the upstream sterilization substation 22 extends. This input conveyor 112 is designed to go into the sterilization substation introduced container bundles 7 manually along the groups of idle rollers arranged therein 113 and 114 can be moved.

The container packs 7 are introduced into the conveying area 9 in such a way that they are directly on a group of rollers 113 rest. Alternatively, however, the drive arrangement 21 can have one or more not shown Have pallets which are arranged so that they rest on the conveyor rollers 113 and in turn the

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Carry container container 7. These pallets can mechanically insert container bundles 7 into the Facilitate the conveying area 9, as well as the movement of the containers 7 within the sterilization substations 22 and 23. If pallets are provided, one of the inspection covers 17 in the vicinity of the downstream Sterilization substation 23 can be provided in order to remove this pallet after the emptying of the To enable container 2 from the container 7 on the pallet located in the sterilization substation 23 chen.

The drive assembly 21 also includes a conveyor

115 (FIGS. 9 and 10), which extends along the conveyor area 9 within the output station 101 and can be actuated is to convey filled containers 2 through this station and output them from the machine 1. Of the Output conveyor 115 consists of a group of powered conveyor rollers 116 that are located within the output station 101 is located. This group of conveyor rollers

116 is driven by a suitable motor and transmission 117, such as by an air motor, a drive shaft and a belt drive.

Each roller in the group of conveyor rollers 116 of the output conveyor 115 may have an outer surface 118 that is treated so as to be frictionally engaged with the filled containers 2 improved. For this purpose, the rollers 116 of this roller group with a at least partially rubberized outer surface 118

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be provided. This surface 118 can be provided with a rubber coating, or - as shown - with a series of O-rings 119 spaced apart along each of the rollers 116. 5

In this preferred embodiment, the output conveyor 115 a slight incline from the container filling arrangement 19 to the outlet 16 to facilitate the movement of the container in this area.

A number of monitoring and control mechanisms can be provided in order to monitor and control the various functions of the machine 1. In this context Means, not shown, can be provided to increase the number of bags 3 and more to monitor the filling container 2 within the machine 1, as well as the presence of the caps each of these containers 2, the correct positioning of each container 2 on the support platform 47 and in the area of the guide rails 45 prior to filling the container, maintaining a positive pressure within at least the filling station 41, the Maintaining a predetermined temperature in one or several stations 22, 23, 41 and 101, the operating hours of the generators 33, 35 and 36 for generation of the ultraviolet light, the sealing of the nozzle nose 78 within the closure nozzle 4 before Filling and spilling of the product to be filled or other contamination within the conveying area 9. Means not shown can also be provided to inter alia the effect of the spray washer nozzles 100,

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the heating element 31, the generators 33, 35 and 36 for generating the ultraviolet light, the filling head 54, the movement of the shutter opening mechanism 63, the filling nozzle 74, the discharge conveyor 115, the Sealing device 102 and severing blade 104 to be monitored. The linear motors 53, 59, 61, 73 and 120 can be air-actuated piston-cylinder units, the monitoring devices of the influx of compressed air to and the outflow of air from these motors can monitor.

Since it is necessary for an effective filling of the container 2 that the nozzle nose 78 is properly inserted into the closure nozzle 4 is used and sealed against this before and while the container 2 is filled, the Monitoring and control mechanisms in particular of this type be arranged that they check the effectiveness of the seal on the closure neck 4 before the dispensing valve 80 is released to allow the product to be filled. This monitoring process can include checking the effectiveness of the evacuation of the container 2, in which the residual vacuum is determined and it is monitored which one after the evacuation period remains, whereby a display for the operating personnel can be made if the negative pressure increases approaches the value ZERO to indicate that the seal between the nozzle nose 78 and the closure port 4 is incomplete. After this seal has been checked and, if necessary, improved, this can be done Valve 80 can be actuated to dispense the product into container 2.

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The majority of these monitoring and control means can be arranged outside the conveying area 9, at least in the filling station 41 in order to reduce the contamination of this conveying area 9 to a minimum. Appropriate aseptic seals, not shown, may be provided.

The monitoring and control means can be a combination of electronic and mechanical devices, as are well known to those skilled in the art. Wherever possible, these devices are preferred operated automatically to promote the automatic operation of the machine.

For a further understanding of the machine 1 according to the invention, the mode of operation of the above-described, preferred embodiment explained below.

Before each working period of the machine 1, it is caused to automatically undergo a sterilization process to ensure that the machine 1 is sterilized for operation. Be for this purpose the control means is operated so that the support plate 55 is rotated and under the action of the linear motors 59 and 61 is lowered until the nozzle nose 78 is in the cleaning cup 99. The dispensing valve 80 is actuated by the linear motor 120 arranged on the machine frame 8, to the channel 79 for the product release and sterilization of all delivery lines for the product to enable. The control means also set the gas pumping device 109 in operation so that

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'Sterilized air in the conveyor area 9, at least in the downstream sterilization substation 23 and the filling station 41 is initiated. The air becomes up to an order of magnitude of about 25 Micron filtered and then passed through the heater or combustion device 110, which the air except for heated to a temperature of about 300 C before going directly into lines 108 and within the conveying area 9 circulates. At this temperature all living bacteria are destroyed. Metallic components of the machine 1, which are acted upon by this hot, dry air, are up to the order of magnitude of 150 C heated. When the required disinfection temperature is reached, this is monitored for a specified period of time and recorded on a chart recorder recorded and after the end of this heating period, the air is diverted via the cooling device 111, to lower the temperature to approximately 45 C. This air can then continue through the lines 108 at least introduced into the downstream sterilization substation 23 and the filling station 41 and as sterile low-pressure air can be used to create a certain overpressure in the conveying area 9 during the filling process to maintain. During the operation of the machine, a large percentage of the air is drawn through the pumping device 109 recirculated, along with a volume of conditioned air to replace the through the loading opening 14 and the outlet opening 16 of the conveying area 9 escaped air.

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.33D1.315

When operating the machine 1, an operator removes which works in a cleaned environment adjacent to the machine 1, all external, not shown Storage or transport packaging from the container bundles 7, the container wrapping around the Tray 2 remains closed. The container bundle 7 is then through the loading opening 14 into the conveying area 9 and arranged in the section 25 of the upstream sterilization substation 22.

The operator then isolates section 25 by closing inlet door 15 and the inner partition door 24 and initiates spray washing and drying of the packaging. This washing and drying is a timed function with the operator through the control means on the end attention is drawn to this process. The container envelope and the container 2 are then of the Generators 33 in section 25 of the upstream sterilization substation 22 emanating ultraviolet Exposed to radiation.

After the container has been washed and dried, the inner separation door 24 is opened and the container 7 manually moved into section 26 of the upstream sterilization substation 22, whereupon the separation door 24 is closed again. The operator slits open the container envelope to release the container 2. The access for this activity is through the manipulation elements 37, the protrude into this section 26. In section 26 will be

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ι - ·; ■: ι - 54 -

the container envelope and the container 2 again one exposed to ultraviolet radiation from the light generator 33 located in this section.

A first container 2 from the slit container is then removed from the container 7 and attached to a not shown Tension cord attached, which is pulled through the conveying area 9 before the machine 1 is sterilized has been. This pull line runs through the outlet opening 16 of the conveying area 9 and is operated by the operator taken to successively the container 2 out of the containers 7 and onto the support platform 47 to pull, with the locking nozzle 4 slide onto the guide rails 45. While the container 2 are pulled through the downstream sterilization substation 23, they become an ultraviolet one Exposure to radiation from the generators 35 and 36 and so prior to entering the filling station 41 sterilized.

When the leading container 2 reaches the filling station 41 reached, this is determined by a monitoring body to determine the presence of a container, so that the downstream positioning arm 48 is actuated by the linear motor 53 around the closure port to block along the guide rails 45. In the filling station 41, the upstream positioning arm 59 is assigned by the Linear motor 53 actuated to the closure nozzle 4 of the leading container 2 firmly between the To capture gripping fingers 50 of the positioning arms 48 and 49.

The operator then operates the control means in order to fill the leading, leading container 2 to cause. For this purpose, the closure opening mechanism 63 is first placed directly over the closure cap 6 is set and with the actuating ram 69 in its rest position, the support plate 55 of the filling head 54 is lowered under the action of the linear motor 61 until the gripping claws 65 extend over the closure cap 6 extend and the closure cap 6 resiliently receive in the mouth 67. The support plate 55 is then raised by the linear motor 61, with the shutter opening mechanism 63 opening the cap 6 lifts off the closure nozzle.

The support plate 55 is then rotated about the axis 58 by the linear motor 59 until the filling nozzle 74 is immediately is located above the closure stub 4, whereupon the support plate 55 is again driven by the linear motor 61 is lowered until the nozzle nose 78 penetrates the opening 5 and tightly against the circumference of the closure nozzle 4 sets. At this stage of the process, the channel 85 is connected to a vacuum source and there the valve closing needle 92 under the bias of the Spring 94 releases the mouth 90, the air is evacuated from the container 2. Subsequent to the evacuation and - if provided - the confirmation of the effective seal between the nozzle nose 78 and the Closure nozzle 4, the control device actuates the linear motor 73 to the valve stem 83 and the valve closing needle 92 to move against the action of the springs 84 and 94 biasing them, respectively. Because of the

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330 \ 315

relative positions of the valve stem 83 and the valve closing needle 92, the linear motor 73 will first actuate the valve closing needle 92, which the opening 90 locks and thus terminates the withdrawal of air. Immediately thereafter, the linear motor 73 actuates the valve stem 83, which in turn actuates the dispensing valve 80 to release the channel 79 and the outlet of a to allow predetermined amount of the product through the channels 75 and 79 to the container 2. During this product delivery channel 85 is connected to a source of low pressure nitrogen.

After completion of the filling process, the linear motor 73 is actuated again to the valve stem 83 and to release the valve closing needle 92, whereby the channel 79 is initially blocked by the dispensing valve 80 and then the orifice 90 is released to supply nitrogen under low pressure to the orifice 5. The support plate 55 is then slowly raised by the linear motor 61 to remove the nozzle nose 78 from the To move the closure nozzle 4 and thereby splashing of the product to be filled. The low pressure nitrogen assists the separation between the filling nozzle 74 and the product.

When the nozzle nose 78 is above the closure nozzle 4 and about 200 milliseconds before If the support plate 55 is further removed, the filling nozzle 7A 'is again connected to the vacuum source via the channel 85 connected to any drops of the product on the nozzle nose 78 in the inner bore 88 and given-

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- 57 - *** * if also to be sucked in through duct 85.

The support plate 55 is then fully withdrawn and then rotated under the action of the linear motor 59 to to position the filling nozzle 74 over the cleaning cup 99 and the shutter opening mechanism over the Closure nozzle 4. By lowering the support plate 55 again by the linear motor 61, the nozzle nose 78 moved into the cleaning cup 99 to wash it with a cleaning liquid, and the closure cap 6 is reconnected to the closure nozzle 4. The control means then cause the linear motor 73, the Confirmation stamp 69 from its rest position to its To transfer operating position in which he the gripping claws 65 against the pretensioning effect of the belts and thus moved out of engagement with the closure cap 6 and the closure cap 6 in firm engagement with the Closing nozzle 4 brings. During the actuation ram 69 is held in its operating position the support plate 5 is then raised by the linear motor 61 to the shutter opening mechanism 63 from the Area of the filled container 2 to move. Then the linear motor 73 is withdrawn in order to allow the actuating ram 69 to return to its rest position. to turn.

The positioning arms 48 and 49 then free against the closure nozzle, so that the filled, leading container 2 can be pulled manually from the filling station 41 to the output station 101, where the effect of the Output conveyor 115 through the leading container 2

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moves this station 101 and at the same time pulls a following container 2 into the filling station 41, where it is as above described is filled. After welding the closure cap 6 to the closure nozzle 4 through the Ultrasonic welding device 102 and the separation of the leading container 2 from the container 7 by the separating blade 104 is the filled container 2 through the outlet opening 16 from the conveying area 9 and over the dispensed output chute not shown.

It is until two filled containers 2 have been drawn through the filling station 41 to the discharge conveyor 115 It is necessary for the operator to move the containers 2 through the conveying area 9 manually by means of the pull cord pulls. Once these two containers 2 are on the discharge conveyor 115, the pull cord can be unhooked and the output conveyor 115 continuously moves container 2 out of container 2 and through the conveying area 9 draw.

If, for any reason, the product to be filled is spilled or splashed during the filling process is, the operation of the machine 1 can be interrupted and a washing program can be initiated. A row of solid The spray heads, not shown, are arranged along the conveying area and can this conveying area 9 of a spray wash and subject to sterilization to wash away the remains of the product. This washing program can be timed be set to e.g. 3 minutes, whereupon the machine 1 is set to continue the filling operation will.

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During normal operation, in the case of the machine 1, at least two containers 7 will be located within the conveying area 9 are located, namely one container each in the upstream and in the downstream sterilization substation 22 or 23, the container 2 for the filling process being pulled out of the one container 7, while the other container 7 is ready for the time is in which one container is emptied. To ensure that the filling process after the exhaustion of the a container 7 is not delayed, the leading container 2 of the other container 7 is in the upstream Sterilization substation 22 with the last container 2 of the one container 7 in the downstream one Sterilization substation 23 has been connected by the operator while the containers of the a container 7 can be filled. This connection can be made with an adhesive tape, which is either with the last container 2 of one or the leading container 2 of the other container bundle 7 is connected during the manufacture of the container.

It is therefore when a container 7 is emptied is automatically started with the filling into the container of the other container. The machine can be equipped with a be provided through the inspection cover 17 visible display, which indicates to the operator, that the one container container 7 is emptied, so that the other container packs 7 in the downstream sterilization substation 23 are moved and another container 7 in the upstream Sterilization substation 22 should be introduced. The monitoring means can display an alarm

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that takes effect if this function is not performed.

The present invention provides a machine and method which can be used to make containers to be filled in aseptic condition. After an exemplary application of the invention, it is special suitable for filling liquid food or beverages into flexible, bag-shaped containers. As a result, the containers thus filled by the machine can reduce the product compared to previously known ones Keep filling machines in usable condition for a longer period of time.

The machine and method of the present invention enables rapid, continuous operation Filling of the containers with a minimal possibility of interruption by incorrectly fed or filled Container. The filling of the containers can therefore be carried out in an economical and effective manner reducing the end cost of the product to the consumer to a minimum.

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Claims (1)

(1.J machine for filling a container through a opening arranged thereon, characterized by a frame forming a conveying area (9) for the containers (2) (8), through which conveying area (9) the container (2) introduced into the machine (1) is moved during the filling process by a container sterilization arrangement (18) mounted on the frame (8), which in the conveying area (9) forms a sterilization station (22, 23), the container sterilization device (18) being operable to to aseptically sterilize the containers (23) at least in an area containing the opening (5) when they are located in the sterilization station (22, 23), and by a container filling arrangement mounted on the frame (8) (19), which forms a container filling station (41) in the conveying area, the container filling arrangement (19) can be operated in such a way that it picks up sterilized containers (2) and removes them through the Opening (5) fills with a product, while at least the area of the container (2) containing the opening (5) is kept in an aseptic condition. 2. Machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the conveying area (9) contains sterilized gas, which is kept at a pressure that is higher than the atmospheric pressure in the vicinity of the machine (1), in such a way that the conveying area (9) is kept in an aseptic state and the atmosphere cannot penetrate into this area is prevented. 3. Machine according to claim 2, characterized in that the sterilized gas in the region of the container filling station (41) is introduced into the conveying area (9) air. 4. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conveying area (9) has a Has loading opening (14) through which the container (2) to be filled can be introduced into the conveying area (9), and an outlet opening (16) through which the filled container (2) is released from the conveying area (9), wherein the frame (8) of the machine (1) covers the entire conveying area (9) between the loading opening (14) and the outlet opening (16) encloses. 5. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is provided with a drive arrangement (21) is provided for a conveying device which is suitable for carrying the container (2) through the conveying area (9) to be promoted. 6. Machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the drive arrangement (21) is suitable for a plurality of containers (2) in a row through the conveyor area (9), each container (2) by discrete, step-by-step movement through the conveying area (9) is movable, such that the container (2) at least temporarily stops at each machine station (22, 23, 41, 101). 7. Machine according to one of claims 5 or 6, characterized in that the drive arrangement (21) has a Series of conveyor rollers (113, 114, 116) by which the container or containers (2) is or are supported, and that at least some of the conveyor rollers can be driven selectively in order to move the container or containers (2) through the conveying area (9) to move and that at least some of the conveyor rollers (116) one to facilitate frictional contact with the or the container or containers (2) carried by them have treated outer surface (118). 8. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sterilization arrangement (18) comprises a pre-sterilization unit (28) which the conveying area (9) is arranged adjacent and operable in such a way that it has at least one outer surface of the Container (2) sterilized. 9. Machine according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the sterilization arrangement (18) comprises a pre-sterilization unit (28) which is arranged adjacent to the conveying area (9) and such is operable that at least one outer surface of a Container envelope is sterilized in which one or more containers (2) is introduced into the machine will or will be. 10. Machine according to one of claims 8 or 9, characterized in that the pre-sterilization unit (28) is designed as a washing cleaning device. 11. Machine according to claim 10, characterized in that the pre-sterilization unit (28) at least a spray nozzle (29) connected to a source of a pressurized chemical disinfectant liquid can be connected for spraying the outer surface, as well as at least one electrical heating element (31) which can be operated in such a way that it evaporates the disinfectant liquid to dry the outer surface. 12. Machine according to one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the pre-sterilization unit is suitable for exposing the container (2) to high-frequency light rays. 13. Machine according to claim 12, characterized in that the pre-sterilization unit (28) at least a generator (33) for generating low-intensity ultraviolet light, which is so arranged is that the container (2) can be exposed to ultraviolet radiation « 14. Machine according to one of claims 8 to 13, characterized in that the sterilization arrangement (18) comprises a main sterilization unit (34) which is adjacent to the conveying area (9) and in the conveying direction arranged after the pre-sterilization unit (28) and can be operated in such a way that the container (2) is sterilized at least in its opening area. 15. Machine according to claim 14, characterized in that that the main sterilization unit (34) is suitable for the container (2) at least in its opening area to expose them to high-frequency light rays. 16. Machine according to claim 15, characterized in that the main sterilization unit (34) at least a generator (35) for generating ultraviolet Has high intensity light which is arranged such that the opening area of the container (2) of the is exposed to ultraviolet radiation, as well as at least a generator (36) for generating low-intensity ultraviolet light arranged in such a manner is that the container (2) can be exposed to ultraviolet radiation. 17. Machine according to one of claims 15 or 16, characterized in that at least some surfaces (46) of the machine (1) are highly polished in such a way that light rays received by these surfaces (46) at least to the opening area of the Sterilization station (23) located container (2) are reflected. 18. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filling arrangement (19) has a filling unit (44) adjacent to the conveying area (9) comprises, which has at least one guide element (45), which extends through the filling station (41) and is adapted to support the containers through the To lead filling station (41). 19. Machine according to claim 18, characterized in that that the filling unit (44) comprises at least one positioning (48, 49) which is suitable, selectively and inevitably the container (2) adjacent to its opening in the filling station (41) in one for Filling with the product serving, predetermined filling position to be positioned and held. 20. Machine according to claim 19, characterized in that that a pair of guide elements (45) is provided which extend closely adjacent to one another from the sterilization station (22, 23) through the filling station (41) and are arranged in such a way that a closure stub (4) is carried by them so as to be longitudinally displaceable can be, which has the opening (5) of the container (2). 21. Machine according to claim 20, characterized in that a pair of positioning elements (48, 49) is provided, which are selectively operable to the between the guide elements (45) supported closure nozzle (4) to grab and hold when the container (2) is in the specified filling position. 22. Machine according to claim 21, characterized in that each positioning element is one on one associated guide element (45) mounted positioning types (48, 49) and that each positioning arm (48, 49) has a gripping finger (50) which is pivotable is mounted on the associated guide element (45), with a gripping finger (50) in relation to the conveying direction is arranged in the filling station (41) at a small distance behind the other gripping finger (50), and that each positioning arm (48, 49) with an actuating lever articulated to the gripping finger (50) (52) is provided and can be actuated in such a way that the gripping fingers can be pivoted towards one another or away from one another are in order to thereby grasp or release a closure nozzle (4) arranged between them. 23. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filling arrangement (19) has a Filling head (54) which is connectable to a source of the product to be filled and can be actuated in such a way that that part of it can be introduced through the opening (5) into the container (2) located in the filling station (41), wherein the filling head (54) for injecting the product into the container opening (5) when filling the container (2) movable against the container (2) and after the filling of the . 8 - ^: " ^: '·""- ^: ''··" ■■ the container (2) can be moved back from this. 24. Machine according to claim 23, characterized in that the filling head (54) has a closure opening mechanism (63) is provided which is suitable to close a closure (6) from the opening (5) of the container (2) when the sterilized container (2) to be filled is in the filling station (41) and the Machine (1) with an opening (5) closed by a closure (6) and which is further suitable is, after filling the container (2) with the product, the closure (6) to close the opening (5) again to transfer into its locking position. 25. Machine according to claim 24, characterized in that the shutter opening mechanism (63) is a series of Comprises gripping claws (65) which are arranged in a ring such that they grip the closure (6) between them can, and that the shutter opening mechanism (63) is mounted on the frame (8) of the machine (1) such that the gripping claws (65) against the Container (2) and can move away from this when it is in the filling station (41) to the of the gripping claws (65) to remove the lock (6) or to transfer it back into its locked position. 26. Machine according to claim 25, characterized in that the shutter opening mechanism (63) has a tubular body (64) comprises that the gripping claws (65) relative to this body (64) radially movable are stored on him that at least one spring-elastic cal band (68) extends around the gripping claws (65) to biasing this radially inwardly for engagement with the closure (6), and that an actuating ram (69) in In the longitudinal direction of the tubular body (64) in engagement with the gripping claws (65) is movable in order to counteract them to move the bias of the band (68) radially outward and thereby hold one between them Release closure (6). 27. Machine according to claim 26, characterized in that the actuating ram (69) can be actuated in this way is that he forcibly held a lock (6) held between the gripping claws (65) into an opening (5) of the container (2) presses the closing position. 28. Machine according to one of claims 23 to 27, characterized in that the filling head (54) has a filling nozzle (74) with a nozzle nose (78) through which the product can be injected into the container (2), wherein the nozzle nose (78) is adapted to extend into the opening (5) of the container (2) when the Container (2) is located in the filling station that the nozzle nose (78) sealingly on the circumference during the filling process the opening (5) is applied. 29. Machine according to claim 28, characterized in that the filling nozzle (74) can be connected to a vacuum source is when the nozzle nose (78) rests sealingly on the circumference of the opening (5), 'around the container (2) in front of the Fill with the product to evacuate. - 10 - - ίο - 30. Machine according to one of claims 28 or 29, characterized in that the filling nozzle (74) during or immediately after the nozzle nose (78) has been withdrawn from the opening (5) of the container (2) with a Vacuum source can be connected to optionally drop the product to be filled in on the nozzle nose (78) to pull the nozzle (74). 31. Machine according to claim 30, characterized in that the filling nozzle (74) immediately after the filling process can be connected to a source of pressurized gas in order to release the tight connection between the nozzle nose (78) and the circumference of the opening (5) of the container (2). 32. Machine according to one of claims 28 to 31, characterized in that the filling arrangement (19) a nozzle cleaning device (98), which after filling the container (2) with the product for Cleaning the nozzle nose (78) can be actuated. 33. Machine according to claim 32, characterized in that the nozzle cleaning device (98) has a Cleaning cup (99) comprises, in which the nozzle nose (78) protrudes, as well as at least one spray nozzle (100), which is arranged in the cleaning cup (99) and with a Source of a cleaning fluid can be connected to spray the nozzle nose (78) when this is in the cleaning cup (99) protrudes. - 11 - 34. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a dispensing arrangement (20) for the container (2), which is mounted on the frame (8) of the machine (1) and an output station (101) in the conveying area (9) and which can be actuated in such a way that it takes the from the dispensing station from the filling station (41) outputs the accepted container (2). 35. Machine according to claim 34, characterized in that the dispensing arrangement (20) has a sealing device (102) which can be actuated in such a way that it has a closure (6) on the one taken over by the dispensing station (101) Container (2), which closes the opening (5) releasably, closes permanently. 15th 36. Machine according to claim 35, characterized in that the sealing device (102) is a welding device which is suitable for welding the closure (6) to the container (2). 37. Machine according to one of claims 34 to 36 in _s in that it is designed such that it successively through the sterilization station (22 in a series of contiguous container (2) 23) and the filling station (41) is moved to the dispensing station (101) and that the dispensing arrangement (20) has a separating unit (103), which is suitable for separating the filled containers (2), which are successively attached the output station (101) arrive so that they then can be issued individually by the machine (1). - 12 - 38. Machine according to claim 37, characterized in that the cutting unit (103) has a cutting blade (104) with a longitudinally W-shaped cutting edge (105) which is used to separate the filled containers (2) is movable like a guillotine. 39. A method for filling a container through an opening arranged on it, characterized by the following Steps: Introducing the container (2) into a conveying area (9) for the transport of the container (2), Movement of the container (2) through the conveyor area (9) to a sterilization station (22, 23), Sterilization of the container (2) at least in the area of its opening (5) when it is in the sterilization station (22, 23), Transfer of the sterilized container (2) along the conveying area (9) to a filling station (41) and Filling the container (2) received in the filling station (41) through its opening (5) with a product, while at least the opening area of the container (2) is kept in an aseptic state. 40. The method according to claim 39, characterized in that a sterilized as a further step Gas is introduced into the conveying area (9) and the gas is at a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure in the Is held in the vicinity of the conveying area (9) while the container (2) migrates through the conveying area (9), in order to prevent the atmosphere from penetrating into the conveying area (9). - 13 - 4L method according to one of claims 39 or 40, characterized in that the step of aseptic Sterilization of the container (2) comprises the detergent washing of the outer surface of the container (2). 5 42ο method according to one of claims 39 or 40, characterized in that the step of aseptic sterilization of the container (2) is detergent washing and drying an outer surface of a container envelope in which one or more containers (2) is or will be introduced into the conveying area (9). 43. The method according to any one of claims 41 or 42, characterized in that the step of aseptic Sterilization of the container (2) also includes that at least the opening area of the container (2) is high-frequency Exposed to rays of light. 44. The method according to claim 43, characterized in that the container (2) at least with its opening area ultraviolet light rays of high intensity is exposed. 45. The method according to any one of claims 43 or 44, characterized in that the outer surface is ultraviolet Light rays of low intensity is exposed. 46. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 45, characterized in that as a further step of - 14 - Container (2) is guided through the filling station (41) in a supported manner and the container can be released in the filling station held near its opening (5) and in a predetermined filling position for filling with the product is positioned. 47. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 46, characterized in that the container (2) with a its opening (5) covering closure (6) in the conveyor area (9) is introduced and that as further steps the closure (6) is removed from the opening (5) of the container (2) when the sterilized container to be filled (2) is received by the filling station (41), and the closure (6) to close the opening (5) again is put back when the container (2) with the Product has been filled. 48. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 47, characterized in that the step of filling the Container (2) comprises: that a filling nozzle (74) provided with a nozzle nose (78) into the opening (5) of the container (2) Introducing the filling nozzle (74) to be connected to a source of product, around the container (2) to fill with a portion of the product via the nozzle nose (78), and that after the container has been filled (2) the filling nozzle (74) is removed from the opening (5) of the container (2). - 15 - 49. The method according to claim 48, characterized in that the step of filling the container (2) continues comprises: sealing the nozzle nose (78) from the periphery of the opening (5) of the container (2) after insertion into this opening and maintaining the seal during the filling process. 50. The method according to claim 49, characterized in that the step of filling the container (2) continues includes; the connection of the filling nozzle (74) to a vacuum source after sealing the nozzle nose (78) opposite the circumference of the opening (5) and the evacuation of the container (2) before filling the product. 51. The method according to any one of claims 49 or 50, characterized in that the step of filling the The container (2) further comprises: the connection of the filling nozzle (74) to a vacuum source during or immediately after the nozzle nose (78) has been withdrawn from the opening (5) of the container (2), in order to thereby dispose of any drops of the product on the nozzle nose (78) into the Pull out the filling nozzle (74). 52. The method according to any one of claims 49 to 51, characterized in that the step of filling the Container (2) further comprises the connection of the filling nozzle (74) with a pressurized gas source immediately after Filling the container (2) to loosen the tight connection between the nozzle nose (78) and the circumference of the To facilitate opening (5). - 16 - 53. The method according to any one of claims 49 to 52, characterized in that the The nozzle nose (78) is cleaned after the container (2) has been filled. 54. The method according to claim 53, characterized in that the step of cleaning the nozzle nose (78) cie introduction of the nozzle nose (78) into a cleaning cup (99) and the spraying of the nozzle nose (78) with a cleaning liquid. 55. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 54, characterized in that it comprises as further steps: the movement of the filled container (2) along the conveying area (9) to an output station (101) and dispensing the filled container (2) from the conveying area (9). 56. The method according to claim 55, characterized in that the received from the Ausgäbestation (101) Container (2) has a removable closure (6) which closes its opening (5) and that as a further Step the closure (6) is permanently sealed to the container (2). 57. The method according to claim 56, characterized in the step of permanently connecting the closure (6) with the container (2) comprises welding the closure (6) to the container (2). - 17 - 58. The method according to any one of claims 55 to 57, characterized in that a plurality of containers (2) connected in series into the conveying area (9) for successive movement through the conveying area (9) are introduced and that, as a further step, the container (2) in the output station (101) for individual output from the conveying area (9) are separated. - 18 -